Court stops Lille stadium work

UEFA Cup contenders LOSC Lille Métropole have been dealt a blow with a court provisionally overturning permission to improve their Grimonprez-Jooris stadium.

Environmental concern
In December Lille were told they could go ahead with extending their capacity by more than 10,000 to 33,000, but after appeals from two bodies a provisional court order has now ruled that the work would damage the environment and historic heritage of the surrounding area, as the ground is situated in an urban park near fortifications that were built in the 17th century.

July hearing
The club have themselves appealed the decision, but will not be able to carry out any work until 8 July, when the next hearing is scheduled. Lille have temporarily moved to the Lille Métropole stadium in the suburb of Villeneuve-d'Ascq, and will now stay there for the 2005/06 season.

Cabaye contract
Meanwhile, 19-year-old defensive midfield player Yohan Cabaye has been handed his first professional contract, running until June 2008. The academy product was promoted to the first team in November and took part in the 1-0 UEFA Cup Group H win against Sevilla FC the following month that clinched first place. Lille visit FC Basel 1893 for the first leg of their Round of 32 tie on Thursday.